Why Google ended Google Glass?

Starting 2015 January, Google has stopped selling their Google Glass device and has pulled out remaining products sold over key distribution partners.

The tech giant clarifies the device is a work-in-progress under the Google X program and its launch three years ago in April 2012 was an experiment undertaken to gauge consumer reception and overall marketability of similar smart wearable devices.

Even the official product website clearly headlines a message that entices consumers to join in the open beta project to help shape the future of Google Glass.

Google Glass stirred media and public frenzy for being one of the first few products that introduced wearable technology. Despite failing to become a consumer hit, the device has brought forth numerous novel ideas and has helped in introducing the future of wearable products.

Seamus Cordon of PCMag.com considered the project as a PR mess. The device stirred a heated debate between privacy rights and freedom of speech or expression. However, Google Glass seemed useful in different situations or applications. Cordon, for instance, mentioned its applicability in the field of medicine and surgery.

Google has also produced several case studies depicting the usability and applicability of the device across different industries and fields.

Currently, Google Glass is now a standalone project and Tony Fadell, former Apple executive and Nest founder, is now overseeing the future direction of the device.

From the feedbacks the company has received, Google will not focus on future versions of Google Glass.

Note that current Google Glass devices sold to consumers will continue to work but it is likely that the company would not roll out official software updates in the future.

Other companies have also ventured into wearable technologies. Intel, for instance, has recently announced its ongoing project with Oakley to produce and introduce smart sports glasses.